The NFL Scouting Combine has become one of the more interesting events during the NFL draft process. It gives each team an opportunity to get accurate measurements, have a face-to-face interview and compare workout numbers. The problem is that some teams put too much stock into the workouts, allowing the numbers to overshadow the game tape.

However, there are plenty of positive things to take from this event. Below are five things that I’ll be watching closely throughout the combine process.

1. Devin Funchess’ workout numbers

Michigan’s Devin Funchess is one of the most interesting prospects in this draft because of his rare combination of size and athleticism. This has also made it tough to find the best position for him at the next level.

He entered the season labeled as a tight end, but he rarely lined up on the line of scrimmage, playing more of a wide (read more...)]]>

The NFL Scouting Combine has become one of the more interesting events during the NFL draft process. It gives each team an opportunity to get accurate measurements, have a face-to-face interview and compare workout numbers. The problem is that some teams put too much stock into the workouts, allowing the numbers to overshadow the game tape.

However, there are plenty of positive things to take from this event. Below are five things that I’ll be watching closely throughout the combine process.

1. Devin Funchess’ workout numbers

Michigan’s Devin Funchess is one of the most interesting prospects in this draft because of his rare combination of size and athleticism. This has also made it tough to find the best position for him at the next level.

He entered the season labeled as a tight end, but he rarely lined up on the line of scrimmage, playing more of a wide receiver role. I’m going to look at his workout numbers and compare them to the wide receiver class rather than the tight ends.

If he can keep pace with top receiver prospects like Amari Cooper, Kevin White and DeVante Parker in workouts, it will do a lot to help his draft stock. Funchess’ tape speaks for itself, showing a smooth athlete capable of running clean routes, attacking the seam and hauling in contested passes.

2. Danny Shelton’s workout numbers/bench press

This year’s defensive line class is a well-rounded group with prospects capable of filling the role of a disrupter and others as a space eater. However, there’s one who stands out as having the potential to do both.

Washington’s Danny Shelton is a mountain of a man who happens to feature good quickness. This combination allows him to penetrate the pocket and hold up against the run. I’m interested to see if his workout numbers back up what we all see on tape. A strong showing at the combine could solidify Shelton’s spot in the top-10.

3. Top performer out of OLB/DE prospects

Teams looking to bolster their pass rush have a great chance to do so through this year’s draft. I have as many as 10 edge rushers rated as first or second round prospects. The biggest names in the group include Dante Fowler Jr, Shane Ray, Randy Gregory, Hau’oli Kikaha, Owamagbe Odighizuwa and Alvin Dupree.

Each of these prospects has a lot riding on their workout numbers, as quickness and short-area burst play a major role in generating pressure at the next level. Some of these prospects are ranked so closely together that “winning” the combine could push one to the top of a team’s board.

4. Shaq Thompson’s overall performance

I’m having a tough time finding a fit for the ultra-talented Shaq Thompson. He has proven himself to be an excellent football player and playmaker but just doesn’t have a set position. His camp continues to insist that Thompson is a fit at linebacker and that’s where he’ll workout.

This means he needs to show up with some bulk on his frame and still workout well. NFL.com posted this quote from an evaluator who stated that Thompson played much of last year at 219 pounds. Ideally, Thompson needs to be in the 230 to 240 pound range to survive the physical play in the NFL.

If he weighs in at 219 pounds, it’s likely teams will look at Thompson as a safety rather than linebacker. This would change the way we look at his overall performance during the workouts at the combine.

5. Medicals

Drafting a player is a major investment for a team, as they not only need to pay them but also make sure they complement the rest of the roster and can be relied upon to produce. This is why each prospect attending the Combine is put through a series of medical tests.

Several high-profile prospects have a lot riding on the outcome of the medical test. The most noteworthy is Georgia’s Todd Gurley, who has a chance to be the first running back off the board. When healthy, Gurley has proven to be a dominant player capable of taking over a game. The issue is he’s coming off an injury-plagued season that ended with an ACL tear.

I always like putting out a mock draft prior to the NFL Combine because it represents my evaluation based on game tape. The combine is useful to a point but it’s important to stay true to your evaluations. Some players may move a few spots on my rankings after the combine but that’s because it forces me to go back and look at the film differently.

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State

Winston comes with question marks but his on-field talent is undeniable. The Buccaneers need to do their homework on Winston’s off-field issues because this pick will impact the next several years of the franchise.

2. Tennessee Titans- Dante Fowler Jr., DE, Florida

Fowler is a unique prospect in that he plays bigger than his measurables suggest. This is a nasty player capable of setting the edge versus the run, delivering big hits and (read more...)]]>

I always like putting out a mock draft prior to the NFL Combine because it represents my evaluation based on game tape. The combine is useful to a point but it’s important to stay true to your evaluations. Some players may move a few spots on my rankings after the combine but that’s because it forces me to go back and look at the film differently.

1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jameis Winston, QB, Florida State

Winston comes with question marks but his on-field talent is undeniable. The Buccaneers need to do their homework on Winston’s off-field issues because this pick will impact the next several years of the franchise.

2. Tennessee Titans- Dante Fowler Jr., DE, Florida

Fowler is a unique prospect in that he plays bigger than his measurables suggest. This is a nasty player capable of setting the edge versus the run, delivering big hits and creating pressure on the quarterback. The Titans can use him at either defensive end or outside linebacker.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars- Shane Ray, DE/OLB, Missouri

Ray is the most explosive defender in this draft class and arguably the most dangerous pass rusher. He combines his elite first step with good snap awareness to gain the edge and then use his balance to flatten out as he pursues the quarterback. Don’t let his lack of size fool you as he’s also a ferocious run defender.

4. Oakland Raiders- Amari Cooper, WR, Alabama

This is a popular pick in mock draft circles because it makes so much sense. Cooper is the type of reliable target a developing quarterback needs to take the next step. The combination of Carr and Cooper could be what takes the Raiders back to the playoffs.

5. Washington Redskins- Vic Beasley, OLB, Clemson

Brian Orakpo is a dangerous pass-rusher when on the field, but the problem is he can’t stay healthy. It’s time for the Redskins to move on and Vic Beasley is an excellent fit for their system. Beasley is well-rounded pass rusher in that he features an equally effective speed and power move.

6. New York Jets- Kevin White, WR, West Virginia

The Jets need to surround the young quarterback currently on the roster (Geno Smith) with more talent rather than add another signal caller to the mix. A group featuring Eric Decker, Jace Amaro and Kevin White would put pressure on the defense and make things easier for the quarterback.

7. Chicago Bears- Leonard Williams, DL, USC

The Chicago Bears need to focus most of their attention this offseason adding talent on the defensive side of the ball. Williams is a unique prospect in that he features rare athleticism for his size. He’d be a great fit as a five-technique in the new defensive system expected to be implemented by Vic Fangio.

8. Atlanta Falcons- Hau’oli Kikaha, DE/OLB, Washington

Atlanta brought in Dan Quinn to remake the defense and his first order of business should be to find a pass rush. Hau’oli Kikahah is an explosive athlete capable of attacking the edge, countering inside and turning his speed to power. He’s undersized for a defensive end, but plays with a nasty streak that allows him to still support the run.

9. New York Giants- Andrus Peat, OT, Stanford

Eli Manning will always be a little turnover prone but the frequency dramatically increases when he’s faced with pressure. The Giants offensive line was a major problem last season and needs to be addressed. Andrus Peat has all the tools to quickly develop into an elite offensive tackle.

10. Louis Rams- Marcus Mariota, QB, Oregon

Someone is going to take a chance on Mariota because of his raw physical tools. I have major doubts about his ability to consistently win from the pocket but others don’t appear as worried. The Rams need someone who can come in and help them win games—even if it comes in an untraditional way.

11. Minnesota Vikings- Brandon Scherff, OL, Iowa

Brandon Scherff’s versatility is a major positive for his draft stock. Although his best position might be at guard, he has shown enough fluidity to at least get a shot to succeed at tackle. The Vikings are hoping that Matt Kalil can get back on track but if he fails they would have Scherff waiting in the wings.

12. Cleveland Browns- Danny Shelton, NT, Washington

With Ahtyba Rubin heading towards free agency and Phil Taylor struggling to stay healthy, the Cleveland Browns need to look for some beef along the defensive line. Danny Shelton has the size and strength to handle the nose tackle position as well as provide some pressure thanks to his surprising quickness.

13. New Orleans Saints- Marcus Peters, CB, Washington

Marcus Peters is a top-five talent who falls to this point because of character concerns. His physical play is what the NFL is now looking for in cornerback prospects because it gives him the ability to handle the bigger-bodied receivers in the league.

14. Miami Dolphins- Eddie Goldman, DT, Florida State

The Dolphins face a lot of uncertainty at the defensive tackle spot with Jared Odrick heading towards free agency and Randy Starks coming off a disappointing season. Eddie Goldman is a developing talent whose best football is still ahead. However, he can step in right away and contribute as a run stuffer.

15. San Francisco 49ers- DeVante Parker, WR, Louisville

Landing DeVante Parker would be a coup for the San Francisco 49ers who have a major need at the wide receiver position. Parker is a long and explosive athlete who attacks the ball at its highest point. His ability to high-point the ball will make things easier on Colin Kaepernick.

16. Houston Texans- Devin Funchess, WR/TE, Michigan

Andre Johnson’s future with the team has been a point of discussion for a few years. His age and salary demands make it increasingly difficult for the Texans to keep him in the mix. Adding a big target like Devin Funchess would be a smart move as the Texans are also going through a transition at quarterback.

17. San Diego Chargers- La’el Collins, OL, LSU

The Chargers need a ton of help along the offensive line which is what makes La’el Collins such an attractive prospect. He’s extremely versatile possessing the ability to play both tackle positions and guard.

18. Kansas City Chiefs- Landon Collins, S, Alabama

Eric Berry’s health situation is uncertain at this point (wishing him a full recover!) and the Chiefs need help on the backend of their defense. Landon Collins is a strong run defender who has shown solid range in coverage.

19. Cleveland Browns (via Buff.)- Owamagbe Odighizuwa, OLB/DE, UCLA

The Cleveland Browns’ pass rush was lacking last year which and a negative impact on the entire defense. UCLA’s Owamagbe Odighizuwa is a bit raw but features and elite burst. He’s also someone who plays 100 miles per hour on every snap.

20. Philadelphia Eagles- PJ Williams, CB, Florida State

PJ Williams has excellent reactive athleticism which allows him to stick with receivers throughout the route. He’d be a welcome addition to an Eagles’ secondary with a lack of overall talent.

21. Cincinnati Bengals- Preston Smith, DL, Mississippi State

Preston Smith is a versatile defender capable of generating a rush and holding at the point of attack. He’s someone the Bengals could lineup at defensive end on early downs and shift him inside in passing situations. I love how hard he plays which has an infectious impact.

22. Pittsburgh Steelers- Arik Armstead, DL, Oregon

Pittsburgh changed defensive coordinators this offseason but the scheme is expected to stay the same. Their system requires excellent play from the front seven including the five-technique position. Arik Armstead is a high-upside prospect who features the skill set to be a perfect fit in Pittsburgh.

23. Detroit Lions- Jordan Phillips, DT, Oklahoma

Ndamukong Suh, Nick Fairley and CJ Mosley are all free agents with a questionable future with the Lions. Losing any of these players would create a major void at the defensive tackle position. Jordan Phillips is a naturally gifted player who still hasn’t reached his full potential. He’s already stout against the run but also shows the quickness to also generate some pressure.

24. Arizona Cardinals- Eric Kendricks, LB, UCLA

The Arizona Cardinals were lucky that Larry Foote somehow doesn’t seem to age because without him they would’ve been in major trouble. As it stands, Arizona still needs to address the position and Eric Kendricks would be a great fit. This is an instinctual linebacker who plays with a non-stop motor making plays from sideline to sideline.

25. Carolina Panthers- Sammie Coates, WR, Auburn

Carolina has a major need at the offensive tackle position but at this point the value doesn’t match. They have a chance to add an explosive playmaker in Sammie Coates who’ll complement the more physical Kelvin Benjamin. However, Coates also possesses good size and the aggressiveness to attack the ball at its highest point.

26. Baltimore Ravens- Melvin Gordon, RB, Wisconsin

Justin Forsett had a lot of success last season in Gary Kubiak’s zone-blocking system but Kubiak is gone and Forsett is a free agent. The Baltimore Ravens offense needs a strong ground attack to open things down field for Joe Flacco. Adding Melvin Gordon will make defenses respect the run as well as provide a home-run threat.

27. Dallas Cowboys- Danielle Hunter, DE, LSU

Danielle Hunter possesses the elite size, length and explosiveness evaluators look for in an edge player. He someone who generates pressure off the edge but can also counter with an inside move. Despite needing to add some bulk; Hunter still plays the run with integrity setting a strong edge. The Cowboys need all the help they can get on the defensive side of the ball.

28. Denver Broncos- Tre’ Jackson, OG, Florida State

Both Orlando Franklin and Will Montgomery are free agents leaving major question marks on the interior of Denver’s offensive line. The Broncos have bigger-name free agency to worry about such as Demaryius Thomas, Julius Thomas and Terrance Knighton so it’s not out of the question both offensive linemen move on. Tre’ Jackson is a plug-and-play player capable of stepping in right away.

29. Indianapolis Colts- Todd Gurley, RB, Georgia

Ryan Grigson is catching plenty of heat from the Trent Richardson trade, but not many expected him to be such a colossal failure. None the less, the Colts still have a need at the position and an opportunity to add a true difference maker in Todd Gurley.

30. Green Bay Packers- Benardrick McKinney, LB, Mississippi State

Over the past several years the Green Bay Packers have been searching for an edge rusher to complement Clay Matthews. Now they have a new problem– finding help at inside linebacker so they can move Matthews back to the edge. Benardrick McKinney needs to play more physical at the point of attack but he’s an explosive player capable of making an impact all over the field.

31. Seattle Seahawks- Dorial Green-Beckham, WR, Oklahoma

Somebody is going to take a chance on the ultra-talented but troubled Dorial Green-Beckham. The Seattle Seahawks have a player’s coach in Pete Carroll and a locker room filled with strong leaders. This might be one of the best spots for Green-Beckham to fulfill his potential.

32. New England Patriots- Randy Gregory, DE/OLB, Nebraska

I might be one of the few that doesn’t love Randy Gregory as a prospect. Of course, he flashes natural pass-rush ability but he isn’t a complete player at this point in his development. Gregory needs to get stronger as he struggles to disengage from blockers. This will be a problem at the next level because NFL offensive linemen are heavy-handed enough to control his movements.

Winston is by-far the top quarterback in this draft. His poise in the pocket, vision, accuracy, and arm strength make him the complete package. There may be off-field questions, but there’s no denying his talent.

I want my defensive players to have an edge and nasty streak. Fowler takes the fight to offensive linemen, setting the tone for the defense. This is a stout run-stuffer and a developing pass rusher. Fowler will immediately establish himself as a disruptive force.

Winston is by-far the top quarterback in this draft. His poise in the pocket, vision, accuracy, and arm strength make him the complete package. There may be off-field questions, but there’s no denying his talent.

I want my defensive players to have an edge and nasty streak. Fowler takes the fight to offensive linemen, setting the tone for the defense. This is a stout run-stuffer and a developing pass rusher. Fowler will immediately establish himself as a disruptive force.

Beasley gets the slight edge over Shane Ray because he features a more refined pass-rush arsenal. His ability to utilize speed, power and counter moves routinely puts offensive linemen at a disadvantage. Beasley has also shown the ability to hold up in coverage, as well as aggressively support the run.

Ray is the most explosive pass-rusher in this draft class. His first step allows him to immediate enter the backfield and wreak havoc. This is a well-rounded player who also holds up against the run. Ray features a non-stop motor, which is an important attribute for any defender. It’s important to note that Ray is more of a 4-3 defensive end than Vic Beasley, which could impact where each player lands.

Cooper isn’t the most explosive athlete, which is the only negative surrounding his game. It’s his route-running, awareness and consistency that makes him a special player. Cooper routinely creates separation and knows how to find the opening in a defense. Sometimes a reliable target is better to have than an explosive athlete.

Goldman is a little riskier than the other prospects in the top-ten because he’s still developing. At this point in his career, he’s an excellent run-stuffer who holds at the point of attack. His athleticism and raw strength allows him to disengage and make plays away from his frame. That athleticism is why he has a chance to also develop into someone capable of penetrating the pocket.

There’s no denying Williams has the talent to be a dominant player. However, he just doesn’t play at that level on a consistent basis. Williams is more of a flash player who tends to disappear for long stretches. I always find myself wanting more out of him which is why I rate him slightly lower than most.

Kikaha’s injury history is the only thing keeping him out of my top-five. This is an explosive defender who consistently gains the edge, chases the ball like his hair is on fire and plays an aggressive brand of football. He lacks ideal size but overcomes this problem because of his use of leverage and inside hands.

Peat features all the traits evaluators look for in a franchise left tackle. He’s long, athletic and a fluid mover. The issue is he really didn’t show much development over the past year. He has all the tools but needs to prove he’s capable of reaching his potential.

White is one of my favorite players in this draft because I love his aggressiveness. He always attacks the football at its highest point and works hard to bring down contested passes. This is a natural pass-catcher who plucks the ball away from his frame and looks to pick up yards after the catch.

Scherff has the ability to play either tackle spot in the NFL, but I prefer to rate him as a guard. His toughness, raw power and nasty streak makes him an elite run blocker. He’s the type of player who sets the tone.

Shelton needs to work on keeping his pads down, but he overcomes this problem thanks to his amazing size and athleticism. His ability to explode out of his stance always catches me by surprise because of his size. This isn’t just a defensive tackle who’ll occupy blockers, as he’ll routinely make plays behind the line of scrimmage. One word to best describe Shelton is—disruptive.

Funchess gets a lot of attention because of his size and the mismatch it creates. However, I was equally impressed with his route running and ability to locate open holes in the defense. Funchess is a well-rounded pass catcher who’ll immediately benefit by getting away from Michigan’s erratic quarterback play.

The NFL needs cornerbacks like Marcus Peters because of his physical play and the fact he isn’t afraid to battle bigger receivers. He’s the type of cornerback who’ll out battle those big-bodied targets for contested balls. The issue facing Peters is his off-field red flags, which resulted in him being removed from Washington’s roster midway through the season.

NFL offenses are all about explosive plays and there might not be a more explosive offensive player in this draft than Melvin Gordon. He’s so dangerous with the ball in his hand and is always a threat to score. I’ve said it before, but Gordon reminds me a lot of Cordarrelle Patterson in the way he navigates through traffic.

I’ve been very vocal about my lack of confidence in quarterbacks who play in the type of offensive system Oregon utilizes. It’s a type of attack that relies on spacing, mismatches and deception. Mariota ran that offense beautifully, but it’s going to very different in the NFL. My biggest concern with Mariota is his struggles with the deep ball. His play keeps reminding me of Blaine Gabbert when he was at Missouri.

Parker is a smooth athlete who features size and route-running ability. He’s capable of winning on 50-50 balls as well as working the underneath routes. This might be a little low, but I’ve seen some focus concerns which led to drops.

Collins is a terrific athlete who is at his best playing close to the line of scrimmage. He isn’t a liability in coverage but doesn’t stand out in that area. In fact, he just doesn’t jump off the screen enough to warrant the top-ten hype some are discussing.

Jackson continues to fly under the radar, but this is an immediate starter at the guard position. He features the thick lower half to anchor after contact and the arm length to gain inside hands. Jackson is capable of playing in both a zone and power attack, making him a fit for just about every team.

Collins is another versatile offensive lineman capable of playing both tackle and guard. Over the past two seasons, he has shown more than enough for evaluators to feel comfortable sticking him at tackle early in his NFL career. However, there are times where speed rushers can gain the edge. His best position at the next level might be guard, but he could be an elite player at that spot.

Williams reminds me a lot of Jason Verrett in that he features excellent reactive athleticism. This allows him to stick with receivers in one-on-one situations and mirror their movements. Like Verrett, he also lacks great size but isn’t afraid to play the run with a nasty streak.

It amazes me how much attention Cyrus Kouandjio’s brother got last year — despite his poor performance — while his brother Arie flies under the radar. Arie is a powerful guard prospect who routinely generates a push off the line. He also features the athleticism and fluidity to protect the quarterback.

Somebody is going to take a risk on Dorial Green-Beckham because he features top-five talent. His off-field problems are scary, but his play on the field shows a potentially dominant player. Green-Beckham’s combination of size, speed and leaping ability makes him an instant mismatch problem for the defense.

Hunter is a long and well-built defensive end prospect. His arm length and explosive first step makes it tough for blockers to keep him out of the backfield. He isn’t a finished product but shows the potential to be a disruptive force at the next level.

Smith succeeds because he plays with a non-stop motor, proper technique and great awareness. It also helps that he’s an explosive athlete capable of quickly getting off the ball. He projects as a five-technique defensive end with the ability to set the edge and generate some pressure.

Coates is going to blow up the combine thanks to his elite athleticism. Auburn’s run-heavy offense didn’t do him any favors and is why he isn’t higher on this list. His development as a route-runner will be key, but there’s no denying his potential.

Prospects who fit the traditional linebacker positions aren’t plentiful in this draft. However, Eric Kendricks stands out thanks to his instincts and play-making ability. He’s always around the football, chasing the ball-carrier from sideline to sideline. I love his knack for delivering big hits and creating turnovers.

Odighizuwa is only a small step behind much higher rated prospects like Shane Ray and Vic Beasley because of consistency. However, he’s just as explosive and plays with a non-stop motor. Odighizuwa only needs to improve his hand usage and overall awareness. Like those other prospects, he also plays the run with integrity and shows a powerful jolt/hip roll off the ball.

This might be a little low for Phillips, as he has the making of a top-level defensive tackle prospect. His combination of size and power makes him a good fit at the nose tackle position. I absolutely love how easily he sheds blocks and makes plays away from his frame.

Strong’s size/speed combination makes him a potential matchup problem. He still needs to work on his route-running, but it’s important to note he showed a ton of improvement in that area over the past year.

]]>http://draftbreakdown.com/jon-doves-pre-senior-bowl-big-board/feed/0Five GIFs to Get to Know Ray Drewhttp://draftbreakdown.com/five-gifs-to-get-to-know-ray-drew/
http://draftbreakdown.com/five-gifs-to-get-to-know-ray-drew/#commentsMon, 18 Aug 2014 01:00:55 +0000http://draftbreakdown.com/?p=252913 Georgia’s Ray Drew is a physical and naturally talented defensive line prospect. After watching him play, I quickly fell in love with the former five-star recruit’s ability & upside.

In my view, Drew possesses first round potential. If he continues on the upward trend started with a solid ’13 campaign, the Bulldog will begin to appear in more & more mocks.

While he features tremendous upside, there are several areas of his game that need work. Drew needs to become a more consistent and disciplined player to fulfill his potential. Fortunately, his issues can be corrected through coaching and practice.

With a strong senior showcase, Drew could find himself surging up draft boards.

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Georgia’s Ray Drew is a physical and naturally talented defensive line prospect. After watching him play, I quickly fell in love with the former five-star recruit’s ability & upside.

In my view, Drew possesses first round potential. If he continues on the upward trend started with a solid ’13 campaign, the Bulldog will begin to appear in more & more mocks.

While he features tremendous upside, there are several areas of his game that need work. Drew needs to become a more consistent and disciplined player to fulfill his potential. Fortunately, his issues can be corrected through coaching and practice.

With a strong senior showcase, Drew could find himself surging up draft boards.

If Oakland lands this early of a pick, it likely means Derek Carr didn’t impress as a rookie. Jameis Winston comes with some question marks, but his talent and upside are enough to put him in consideration for the top overall pick.

Personally, I’m not a huge Mariota fan, as there are several areas where he needs to make major improvements. The biggest concern I have surrounding his game is his ability to deliver an accurate deep ball. Nonetheless, the Titans will be looking to move on from Jake Locker if they find themselves picking in the top five.

Hau’oli Kikaha has some injury concerns, but if he can put them aside, he’s easily one of the top five prospects in this draft. He’s another explosive and high-motor pass rusher. I love his balance and ability to dip his shoulder around the edge.

The Buffalo Bills are going to regret surrendering next year’s first-round pick to land Sammy Watkins. Cleveland will gladly grab the explosive and versatile Devin Funchess to help their offense. It’s hard to peg Funchess as a tight end because he does the majority of his work split out at wide receiver. However, he’s athletic enough to basically fill the role of the bigger-bodied wide out.

Ray Drew is quickly becoming one of my favorite prospects to watch. He features a rare combination of natural power and quickness. Drew would look great as a disruptive five-technique in Mike Pettine’s system.

It’s amazing to think that Rex Ryan has been able to put together a top-notch defense despite not having an elite pass rusher. Vic Beasley is exactly the right player to come in and increase the pressure. He features several strong pass-rush moves, including a speed attack and bull rush.

I’m not someone who views quarterback prospects like Brett Hundley or Bryce Petty as top ten picks heading into the season. Unfortunately for the Texans, this forces them to go in a different direction. Marcus Peters is a physical and fluid cornerback who has the size to match up against the growing number of big-bodied NFL receivers.

The Miami Dolphins did a lot of work improving their offensive line this offseason, but there’s still work to be done. Brandon Scherff is a versatile lineman who can play left tackle, right tackle or guard. I went with Scherff over Peat because of his potential fit at guard. Adding him to a line that already features Brandon Albert, Ja’Wuan James, and Mike Pouncey would make this unit a major strength.

Shane Ray is the most explosive pass-rusher I’ve studied so far in this draft class. He combines his excellent burst with good snap awareness and a non-stop motor. The Cowboys need someone like Ray to come in and generate pressure off the edge.

Kansas City’s secondary took a hit this offseason when they decided to part ways with Brandon Flowers. P.J. Williams is a fluid athlete who features long arms and an aggressive style of play. He lacks great size but is someone who’ll limit separation and make life difficult for wide receivers.

The combination of a poor 2013 season and an ugly domestic violence issue puts Ray Rice squarely on the bubble. Baltimore would be a great landing spot for Todd Gurley, who will spark thoughts of Jamal Lewis.

The Giants’ defensive line needs a lot of work, especially if Jason Pierre-Paul doesn’t return to form. Mario Edwards has tremendous upside and came on strong at the end of last year. His combination of size, quickness and power makes him a well-rounded rusher.

I might be a little crazy with this one, but I absolutely love everything I’ve seen from Curtis Grant. He has good size, an excellent closing burst and solid instincts. His willingness to attack the line of scrimmage and use his hands to take on blockers is also a major plus. Grant would look great in the middle of that improving Cardinals defense.

The Atlanta Falcons did a great job improving their offensive line play this offseason; next year, they'll need to improve the pass rush. Shawn Oakman is a physical freak who brings both size and quickness to the table. He has the potential to develop into an elite pass-rusher and really jump up draft boards.

Selecting Florida State receivers in back to back drafts might seem a little odd, but for the Panthers it actually makes a ton of sense. Rashad Greene is the perfect complement to Kelvin Benjamin because he’s a better route runner and someone who uses his speed to make plays.

Landon Collins has a ton of upside but needs to find a little more consistency. However, one can argue that he’d already be one of the better safeties on the Chicago Bears roster. This team did little to address the position over the offseason and likely will make it a priority next year.

Tre’ Jackson is an elite guard prospect who could’ve pushed his way into the first round of this year’s draft. Adding Jackson to an improving group could potentially be the final piece of the puzzle for the Chargers.

James Vaughters is a versatile defender who can rush the passer, set the edge against the run and drop in coverage. His best fit might be as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 system, but most NFL defenses now run a hybrid system. After losing Michael Johnson, the Bengals need more pass-rushing options.

The Eagles continue to make overall improvements to their roster, and the next step is building the secondary. They’d likely prefer to add a safety, but at this point in the draft that position doesn’t have much value. Trae Waynes is physical defender who isn’t afraid of playing on an island.

Deontay Greenberry has everything evaluators look for in a wide receiver prospect in that he has excellent top-end speed, long arms, strong hands, and fluid movement skills. He’d provide the Pittsburgh Steelers a more explosive option alongside Antonio Brown.

The Indianapolis Colts want to feature a power running game but lack the strength up front to succeed. Isaac Seumalo is a nasty and powerful interior lineman who knows how to open running lanes. His physical style is exactly what the Colts need to implement a power-run attack.

While Isaac Seumalo is a powerful interior lineman, Hroniss Grasu is the opposite and a finesse player. Both get the job done but are not a fit for the same type of offense. Grasu’s athleticism and quickness off the ball makes him a strong fit for the Saints’ open attack.

I was never a big believer in Nick Perry, and the Packers' decision to bring in Julius Peppers might signal they feel the same way. Peppers has had a great career, but there’s no doubt he’s on the back end. Randy Gregory is an explosive athlete capable of generating pressure off the edge. He needs to get stronger but has the length to fill into his frame.

It’s easy to picture a scenario where Sebastian Vollmer, Dan Connolly and Logan Mankins are not with the New England Patriots two years from now. Adding someone like La’el Collins makes sense because he has the versatility to line up at tackle or guard.

The San Francisco 49ers have enjoyed the perks that come with having three former first round picks on their offensive line. However, they are facing some salary cap issues that may lead to difficult decisions. The first problem has already presented itself with Alex Boone’s holdout. Aundrey Walker has experience at both tackle and guard while adding a player whose best football is still ahead of him.

While many have Leonard Williams as a potential top-five pick, I see a player who needs to be more consistent. He has the physical tools needed to be a difference maker but tends to disappear for long stretches.

We haven’t heard much about the progress of Brock Osweiler, but the Broncos need to start figuring out if he has the chops to replace Peyton Manning. Putting Cook here is purely speculation, but he’s absolutely in the first-round mix.

]]>http://draftbreakdown.com/jon-doves-preseason-mock/feed/0Jon Dove’s Early 2015 QB Thoughtshttp://draftbreakdown.com/jon-dove-early-2015-qb-thoughts/
http://draftbreakdown.com/jon-dove-early-2015-qb-thoughts/#commentsSat, 31 May 2014 14:29:24 +0000http://draftbreakdown.com/?p=251890The month following the NFL draft is a great time to jump right into next year’s draft class. By that point, I’m usually so tired of watching & discussing the previous year’s prospects that I can’t wait for the palate cleanser of a new draft crop.

Thankfully, this upcoming group of draft-eligible prospects features several intriguing players and storylines already developing. As was the case this past year, the quarterback situation will be one of the more talked about topics.

Florida State’s Jameis Winston and Oregon’s Marcus Mariota are the two names getting the most attention at this point. After spending some time looking at both prospects, I’ve come away giving Winston the edge.

This opinion is based on the play on the field and not factoring in Winston’s off-field concerns. Winston’s play on the field is strong enough to warrant early first-round consideration.

The month following the NFL draft is a great time to jump right into next year’s draft class. By that point, I’m usually so tired of watching & discussing the previous year’s prospects that I can’t wait for the palate cleanser of a new draft crop.

Thankfully, this upcoming group of draft-eligible prospects features several intriguing players and storylines already developing. As was the case this past year, the quarterback situation will be one of the more talked about topics.

Florida State’s Jameis Winston and Oregon’s Marcus Mariota are the two names getting the most attention at this point. After spending some time looking at both prospects, I’ve come away giving Winston the edge.

This opinion is based on the play on the field and not factoring in Winston’s off-field concerns. Winston’s play on the field is strong enough to warrant early first-round consideration.

There is already plenty of talk about Winston’s long throwing motion; however, Winston overcomes that issue with the velocity he’s able to generate on his ball. He also recognizes a tight throwing window and is able to shorten his motion.

I absolutely love Winston’s balance in the pocket and the way he drives off his back foot. Watch here as he squeezes the ball between two defenders.

Winston is committed to going through his progressions and doesn’t typically allow the rush to impact his play. In the face of pressure, he keeps his eyes downfield looking to make a play with his arm rather than his legs.

It’s important to note that last year was Winston’s first season of college football, and it’s reasonable to expect some improvement moving forward. One area that will get better with experience is Winston’s anticipation. He needs to do a better job trusting his reads and getting the ball out quickly.

As for Marcus Mariota, the Duck signal caller is a terrific athlete who plays with tremendous poise. However, the Oregon offense asks him to heavily rely on his legs. I always feel uncomfortable with quarterbacks who need their legs in order to maintain drives.

I also have question marks surrounding Mariota accuracy, especially on his deep ball. The majority of his throws come on a line, but those bucket passes need to have more loft. Oregon’s offense is so dependent on the quick passing game that Mariota doesn’t get a ton of opportunities to attack deep down the field.

At this point, I have Mariota rated as a late-first round prospect with room to move up the board with some improvement.

Another quarterback who has caught my eye is Connor Cook. The Spartan QB quietly had a very strong season last year and should take another step forward in his development. He possesses a very live arm capable of generating a ton of zip to all levels of the field.

Cook is someone who routinely makes sound decisions and could even be criticized for checking down a little too often. However, it’s important to note that Michigan State is looking for their quarterback to play it safe and allow the defense to win the ball game.

Additionally, Cook is a very good athlete capable of extending plays and even picking up some yards with his legs. However, he’s very much a pocket passer who looks to make plays with his arm.

He throws a very pretty deep ball with plenty of loft and good overall placement. His accuracy as a whole is solid thanks to his commitment to squaring to his target.

Below is an example of Cook’s excellent deep ball.

One area where Cook needs to improve is his balance in the pocket. He tends to bounce and hop while scanning the field. At times, this even carries over to his throwing motion, which impacts his delivery. Hopefully, the redshirt Junior will take a step forward in that area this fall.

UCLA’s Brett Hundley is a name on everyone’s radar, but he’s very low on my rankings. He’s an athlete playing the quarterback position who lacks a great feel for the game. His overall decision making and accuracy is a real concern.

Hundley only reads one side of the field and still tends to lock onto his No. 1 target. It was a very good idea for him to return to school for another year to refine his game. His natural talents are obvious, which makes him a candidate to shoot up my board — however, he needs to show better “quarterback” skills to work his way into the first or second round range.

Obviously, there’s a ton of work yet to be done in evaluating these prospects. The quarterbacks I plan on spending more time on in the near future include: Baylor’s Bryce Petty, Oregon State’s Sean Mannion, Stanford’s Kevin Hogan and Florida’s Jeff Driskel. I’ll be sure to share my thoughts on those signal callers in the coming months.

]]>http://draftbreakdown.com/jon-dove-early-2015-qb-thoughts/feed/0Jon Dove’s Final Three-Round Mockhttp://draftbreakdown.com/jon-doves-final-three-round-mock/
http://draftbreakdown.com/jon-doves-final-three-round-mock/#commentsTue, 06 May 2014 19:00:18 +0000http://draftbreakdown.com/?p=251138In my final 2014 NFL Mock Draft, I finally focused on predicting what I think will happen, rather than putting players I prefer in specific spots. This led to prospects like Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Cyrus Kouandjio, Ryan Shazier, Morgan Moses and Tom Savage coming off the board ahead of where I have them ranked.

It also saw Ju’Wuan James and David Yankey drop in the the second day of the draft, where I’d consider them major steals. One of my personal favorites, Arizona State’s Robert Nelson, doesn’t even appear in this three-round mock.

I just want to say that all of this is the reason we love the NFL Draft. The many different opinions lead to spirited debates. Jon’s eager to get your feedback, so be sure to tweet him your thoughts and questions at @Jon_Dove42.

]]>In my final 2014 NFL Mock Draft, I finally focused on predicting what I think will happen, rather than putting players I prefer in specific spots. This led to prospects like Ha Ha Clinton-Dix, Cyrus Kouandjio, Ryan Shazier, Morgan Moses and Tom Savage coming off the board ahead of where I have them ranked.

It also saw Ju’Wuan James and David Yankey drop in the the second day of the draft, where I’d consider them major steals. One of my personal favorites, Arizona State’s Robert Nelson, doesn’t even appear in this three-round mock.

I just want to say that all of this is the reason we love the NFL Draft. The many different opinions lead to spirited debates.

Jon’s eager to get your feedback, so be sure to tweet him your thoughts and questions at @Jon_Dove42.
]]>http://draftbreakdown.com/jon-doves-final-three-round-mock/feed/0Jon Dove’s 2014 NFL Draft Guidehttp://draftbreakdown.com/jon-doves-2014-nfl-draft-guide/
http://draftbreakdown.com/jon-doves-2014-nfl-draft-guide/#commentsMon, 28 Apr 2014 23:01:48 +0000http://draftbreakdown.com/?p=251038]]>
]]>http://draftbreakdown.com/jon-doves-2014-nfl-draft-guide/feed/0Jon Dove’s Offensive Prospect Man Crusheshttp://draftbreakdown.com/jon-doves-offensive-prospect-man-crushes/
http://draftbreakdown.com/jon-doves-offensive-prospect-man-crushes/#commentsFri, 25 Apr 2014 08:54:12 +0000http://draftbreakdown.com/?p=250946I must have a thing for offensive linemen because three of my five offensive man crushes come from the trenches. Teams especially looking to improve at the guard position will have a chance deep into the draft to find a potential starter.

The quarterback position this year doesn’t really impress me as much as it does others. Teddy Bridgewater and Johnny Manziel are the only clear-cut first rounders in my book. Ja’Wuan James — Offensive Tackle — Tennessee

It’s very likely that I’m one of the few that have Ja’Wuan James safely in the first round mix. He is a big-bodied and athletic offensive tackle prospect. Throughout his career, he showed the fluidity to protect the quarterback and the power to generate a push in the run game.

James was overshadowed by teammate and fellow draft prospect Antonio Richardson during his time in a Vols uniform. However, that situation (read more...)]]>

I must have a thing for offensive linemen because three of my five offensive man crushes come from the trenches. Teams especially looking to improve at the guard position will have a chance deep into the draft to find a potential starter.

The quarterback position this year doesn’t really impress me as much as it does others. Teddy Bridgewater and Johnny Manziel are the only clear-cut first rounders in my book.

Ja’Wuan James — Offensive Tackle — Tennessee

It’s very likely that I’m one of the few that have Ja’Wuan James safely in the first round mix. He is a big-bodied and athletic offensive tackle prospect. Throughout his career, he showed the fluidity to protect the quarterback and the power to generate a push in the run game.

James was overshadowed by teammate and fellow draft prospect Antonio Richardson during his time in a Vols uniform. However, that situation was based more on media hype than the play on the field. James had a greater impact and was far more consistent than Richardson, especially this past season.

It makes sense for James to start his NFL career at right tackle, where he’s most comfortable. However, he’s athletic enough to eventually move to the left side. I currently have a first-round grade on James and would rate him as one of the biggest steals if he’s drafted in the second or third round.

The video below shows James using his long arms to engage the pass rusher while keeping a wide and balanced base.

Xavier Su’a-Filo — Offensive Line — UCLA

UCLA’s success this past season had as much to do with Xavier Su’a-Filo as it did star quarterback Brett Hundley. Su’a-Filo provided a versatile and steady force along the offensive line. He started the season at guard but also filled in nicely at left tackle on an injury-riddled line

His play at left tackle really helped his overall draft stock, as he showed good balance, quick feet and the awareness to protect the quarterback. Su’a Filo is someone NFL teams must now consider as both a guard and tackle prospect. That type of versatility is extremely valuable at the next level.

The video below is one of the games where Su’a Filo filled in at the left tackle spot. Notice how he keeps his hands out front with a natural bend.

Trai Turner — Guard — LSU

Keeping with the offensive line theme, LSU’s Trai Turner is one of my favorite prospects in this draft. My support of Turner came late in the process because I really didn’t expect him to leave early. However, after reviewing his play, it was immediately obvious that he’s ready to make an impact at the next level.

The first thing that jumps out when watching him play is his massive size. However, the most impressive part of his game is his explosiveness off the ball. This allows him to use his size and strength to generate a push in the run game.

Turner isn’t just a road-grader, as he’s also able to protect the quarterback. He’s committed to keeping his balance, hands out in front and anchoring after contact. It’s also important to note that this is a player who is still developing and will only get better.

This video shows an example of Turner’s quickness off the ball, ability to pull and lay a block on a shifty defensive back.

Michael Campanaro — Wide Receiver — Wake Forest

When it comes to measurables, Michael Campanaro doesn’t stack up with most of the wide receivers in the NFL. He’s undersized and his 4.46 40-time, while very good, won’t turn any heads. However, this is a savvy route-runner who has a knack for getting open.

I’m sure you’ll hear plenty of Wes Welker comparisons when discussing Campanaro, but it makes more sense just to label him as a slot receiver. Campanaro is a prototypical slot receiver who has a chance to be really productive at the next level.

It’s Campanaro’s short-area quickness, crisp routes and ability to locate the openings in a defense that make him special. At Wake Forest, he was the team’s top playmaker and someone opposing defenses had to watch. This will be a different story in the NFL as he projects as more of a complementary player who should see a ton of one-on-one coverage.

The video below is an example of Campanaro’s strong route-running and quick burst off the line.

Xavier Grimble — Tight End — USC

Like Marqise Lee, Xavier Grimble’s playmaking potential was limited due to USC’s inconsistency at the quarterback position. The fact is that Grimble is an excellent target who has good body control, a big catch radius and solid athleticism.

NFL offensive coordinators and quarterbacks will be able to take full advantage of Grimble’s potential. Don’t be surprised if he’s one of the more productive rookies in this draft class. He still needs to develop more as a blocker, but he shows effort which is an important start.